Ricketts was a founder of modern environmentalism and a pioneer of ecology as a scientific discipline. His book Between Pacific Tides remains the primary reference on west coast marine invertebrates, more than seventy years after its first publication.

Between The Tides follows retired marine biologist Bud Laurent on a quest to reconnect with some old friends, naturalists whose lives embody the curiosity, mental discipline and sense of wonder that made Ricketts a great scientist and “the Renaissance man of Cannery Row.”

Don't miss the Southern California premier of this inspiring film, shot on the California central coast and in Baja California. Peter Coonradt will introduce the film and join audience members for questions and discussion at the reception following the screening.

Curiosity: the Drive for Mars

September 5, 2012 | 5:30 p.m.

The first Redlands Forum of the season will feature University Professor Tyler Nordgren.

Mars was once believed to be a god in the sky. Then Mars was thought to be the abode of intelligent canal-builders. Most recently, it was believed to be barren and dead like the Moon. Now it appears this might be wrong as well.

As NASA's newest rover, Curiosity, begins to survey Mars for the conditions necessary for life, several questions surface. How do we explore Mars with open eyes? What will the future hold in store for us when eventually we travel there ourselves?

Nordgren will explore how humankind's fascination with Mars has shaped our perception. He'll also talk about the current and future possibilities that exist as we deepen our understanding of the Red Planet.

Redlands Forum is sponsored jointly by the University Town & Gown and Esri, offering educational and cultural programs on a variety of topics for free or at nominal cost. Presenters include government and business leaders, environmentalists, filmmakers, and performers.